Talks held: Newcastle now in contact to sign “incredible” £33m+ star for Howe this summer

The taste of silverware still lingers on Tyneside as Newcastle United bask in the glory of their Carabao Cup triumph. Ending a decades-long trophy drought has injected fresh belief into the club, and Eddie Howe now faces the challenge of ensuring this success is just the beginning.
With Champions League qualification still within reach, the Magpies are poised to make a statement in the summer transfer window—backed by their Saudi-backed ownership and a fanbase dreaming of greater heights.
Newcastle’s rise under Howe has been built on shrewd recruitment, and this summer presents an opportunity to elevate the squad further. The club is already laying the groundwork for several high-profile signings, targeting players who can add depth, quality, and versatility.
With Callum Wilson’s future uncertain due to his injury record, Newcastle are exploring options to bolster their frontline. Lille’s Jonathan David has emerged as a prime target, with the Canadian forward available on a free transfer this summer. His clinical finishing and ability to link play make him an ideal fit for Howe’s system, providing competition for Alexander Isak.
Between the posts, Newcastle are eyeing Roma’s Mile Svilar, a highly-rated 25-year-old who has rejected contract extensions in Italy. Valued at £29 million, Svilar is also attracting interest from Chelsea and Manchester City, but Newcastle’s project could prove enticing. His shot-stopping ability and composure under pressure would add another layer of security to the Magpies’ backline.

One of the most intriguing links is Bournemouth’s Dango Ouattara, a dynamic winger who has terrorized Premier League defenses this season. The Burkina Faso international has contributed nine goals and four assists in 30 appearances, showcasing his ability to play both out wide and centrally.
With Aston Villa, Napoli, and AC Milan also circling, Newcastle must act decisively to secure his signature. Reports suggest negotiations are underway for a potential £33.4 million deal, with the Magpies viewing him as a priority signing.
Departures Loom as Squad Evolution Continues
While new arrivals will dominate headlines, several long-serving players could be heading for the exit. The emotional farewells will be bittersweet, but squad evolution is necessary to maintain progress. Below is a breakdown of key players whose contracts expire this summer:
Player | Position | Status |
---|---|---|
Jamaal Lascelles | Defender | No contract option |
Jamal Lewis | Defender | No contract option |
Fabian Schär | Defender | No contract option |
Callum Wilson | Striker | No contract option |
John Ruddy | Goalkeeper | No contract option |
Mark Gillespie | Goalkeeper | No contract option |
Club captain Jamaal Lascelles, after nine years of service, may depart unless a late contract extension is agreed. Similarly, Fabian Schär’s future remains uncertain despite his importance in defense. Callum Wilson’s injury struggles have cast doubt over his continuity, while fringe players like Jamal Lewis and backup goalkeepers John Ruddy and Mark Gillespie are expected to move on.
Newcastle’s transformation under Howe has been remarkable, but sustaining success requires tough decisions. The blend of experienced heads and emerging talents must be carefully managed, ensuring the squad remains competitive across multiple fronts.
The potential signing of Ouattara signals intent, while targets like Jonathan David and Mile Svilar highlight the club’s ambition to compete with Europe’s elite.
For Howe and the recruitment team, the challenge is clear: build a squad capable of challenging for trophies while maintaining the unity that propelled them to Wembley glory.
As the summer window approaches, Newcastle fans can expect a flurry of activity. The Carabao Cup was just the beginning—the real test is ensuring this triumph becomes a foundation for sustained success.
With smart investments and strategic planning, the Magpies could soon establish themselves as a permanent force in English football’s upper echelons.